Winter 2009
Embrace Buzz and
Refuse to Participate in a Recession
Business owners concerned about the future are cutting employees, closing locations, shrinking inventory, and reducing marketing. This behavior is understandable and, in some cases, essential for survival. However, when it comes to marketing, there are many ways to build buzz that cost little or no money.
continueAnnuities Offer a Welcome Benefit for DC Participants: Guaranteed Retirement Income
For employees nearing retirement, guaranteed retirement income is particularly appealing during these uncertain economic times. Many employers are now considering an annuity distribution option to guarantee monthly retirement payments for their participants’ lifetimes. With the Department of Labor’s new safe harbor rule, now may be the opportune time to help your clients select an annuity provider.
continueDOL Offers Safe Harbor
for Sponsors Selecting Annuity Providers
To facilitate the availability of annuity distribution options for individual retirement accounts, the Department of Labor (DOL) has provided guidance to help plan fiduciaries select an annuity provider. The guidance is in the form of a finalized “safe harbor” rule that considers both cost and an insurer’s financial stability.
continueAdvisor Roadmap —
Guiding Clients Through Challenging Markets
Periods of market turbulence present a multitude of challenges for you and your clients. While deteriorating market conditions can be brutal, it’s important not to lose sight of the opportunities they present for you and your clients. From a relationship standpoint, difficult times allow you to further solidify your partnership by offering your support and advice.
continue to full story (PDF)More Execs Helping Manage
Their Companies’ Employee 401(k) Plans
A recent survey indicates that senior executives are increasing their involvement in decisions about their organizations’ 401(k) plans.
continueStill No Fee Guidance From DOL
The future of retirement plan fee guidance is unclear as the Department of Labor failed to finalize its proposed regulations before the first quarter of 2009.
continueThe Mainspring Partner quarterly newsletter helps producers build their business by providing sales aids, learning opportunities, market commentary, regulatory and legislative updates, product enhancement announcements and articles to help improve the effectiveness of your clients’ plans.
Upcoming Conference
Plan to attend the ASPPA 401(k) Summit this month in San Diego for retirement sales and investment professionals. Stop by and visit The Standard, a Titanium sponsor, in booth #515.
March 22-24, 2009
Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego
www.asppa.org/summit
Below is a listing of forum events that are being presented or moderated by The Standard.
Pre-conference Workshop — Getting to Know You: Using Social Media in Your Marketing Mix
Date: Sunday, March 22
Time: 11 - 11:50 a.m.
Presenter: Sheri Fitts, director of communications and large plan sales
Workshop 4 — Disclosure and Presentation of Fees: How Service Providers Present and Disclose Fees to Plan Sponsors
Date: Monday, March 23
Time: 10 - 11 a.m.
Presenter: K.C. Cannon, vice president, institutional sales
Workshop 2 — 403(b): Opportunities in the New Regulations
Date: Monday, March 23
Time: 10 - 11 a.m.
Moderator: Sheri Fitts, director of communications and large plan sales
Workshop 12 — “Buzz Marketing” Advisor Case Studies
Date: Monday, March 23
Time: 3 - 4 p.m.
Moderator: Sheri Fitts, director of communications and large plan sales